Arabic Literature Students Bring Stories to the Screen Through Creative Film Projects
Jakarta, UIN News Online — Students from the Arabic Language and Literature Program at the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, showcased their creativity and storytelling skills by premiering two original drama films as part of a project-based learning initiative.
The screenings, held at the Abdul Ghani Theatre on 30 December 2025, formed part of the final assessment for the Arabic Drama course, encouraging students to transform literary works into visual narratives while strengthening their linguistic, artistic, and collaborative competencies.
Produced by seventh-semester students, the event featured two films with distinct themes and storytelling approaches.
The first production, Ar-Rohal, written by Muhammad Rifki, presents a post-war dystopian world in which humanity has lost the ability to read. The story follows a protagonist who risks his life crossing deserts and seas to preserve classical books, highlighting the enduring importance of knowledge and cultural memory.
The second film, Ar-Rojul al-Ajuz, adapted from a stage play by Jasmiko, explores the relationship between local Javanese traditions and textual interpretations of religion. Through the experiences of a young Islamic boarding school student, the film invites audiences to reflect on cultural diversity, religious understanding, and tolerance within contemporary society.
For the students involved, the productions represented more than an academic assignment.
"This project was an opportunity to share meaningful stories and values through film. We are grateful to everyone who contributed and hope the messages conveyed in these works resonate with audiences," said Jasmiko, Production Manager for one of the student teams.
Course lecturer Dr. Ekawati, M.A. praised the students' achievements, noting that the course was designed to encourage creative expression alongside academic learning.
"Our goal is not only for students to study literary theory but also to create tangible works that demonstrate their knowledge, creativity, and collaborative skills," she said.
Head of the Arabic Language and Literature Program, Dr. Minatur Rokhim, M.A., described the Arabic Drama course as one of the program's signature offerings and expressed plans to provide broader platforms for future student productions.
He noted that the department aims to showcase student performances during future World Arabic Language Day celebrations and expand international engagement by inviting representatives from Middle Eastern countries to participate in cultural and academic events.
The film screenings reflect UIN Jakarta's commitment to experiential learning, encouraging students to integrate language proficiency, literary studies, and artistic expression while developing creative skills that extend beyond the classroom.